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GP Warns : The Hidden Risks of Online Weight-Loss Jabs - What You Need to Know With the rising popularity of GLP-1 medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Mounjaro

KfitWell Holistic Health Coaching in East London, we support safe, sustainable, and informed approaches to health and weight management. With the rising popularity of GLP-1 medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Mounjaro, we’re seeing a concerning trend: these so-called “skinny jabs” are becoming alarmingly easy to access online, often without proper medical oversight.


A recent BBC investigation revealed that some online pharmacies are prescribing these powerful medications based on self-reported data, without verifying medical records or conducting proper consultations 

In test purchases, BBC reporters were able to obtain prescriptions simply by falsifying weight and uploading photos—no video call, no in-person check, and no real medical screening.

Why This Matters

GLP-1 medications are not casual supplements. They are prescription-only drugs designed for individuals with a BMI over 30, or over 27 with weight-related health conditions like high blood pressure or prediabetes. When used appropriately, they can be life-changing. But when misused, they carry serious risks—including gastrointestinal issues, gallbladder problems, and even pancreatitis.

Dr. Ali Ilyas, a GP in North East Lincolnshire, warns that people are bypassing NHS guidelines and obtaining these drugs through online forms that are “too easy to manipulate”

He reports receiving 15 to 20 requests daily for weight-loss injections, many from individuals who do not meet the clinical criteria.

The Regulatory Gap

While the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) introduced new rules in February 2025 requiring online pharmacies to verify height, weight, and BMI, enforcement appears inconsistent. The BBC found that two major providers—MedExpress and Juniper—issued prescriptions within days, based solely on online questionnaires 

This raises a critical question: Are we prioritizing convenience over safety?

What You Can Do

At KfitWell, we believe in empowering clients with medical literacy—understanding not just what a treatment does, but whether it’s right for you. If you’re considering GLP-1 medications:

  • Consult your GP or a licensed prescriber. Never rely solely on online forms.
  • Ask questions about side effects, eligibility, and long-term plans.
  • Avoid unverified online sources. If it seems too easy, it probably is too risky.

Our Holistic Approach

We understand the desire for quick results, but true wellness is about more than numbers on a scale. Our coaching focuses on sustainable lifestyle changes, nutritional balance, and emotional well-being. If medication is part of your journey, we’ll help you navigate it safely and responsibly, in collaboration.

Let’s build a healthier future—together, and with integrity


Further Reading

You can read the BBC article by clicking here. MHRA guidance on this topic can be found by clicking here.


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KfitWell Holistic Health Coaching is motivated to empowering individuals to realize their full potential in well-being through tailored coaching and guidance.


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KfitWell Holistic Health Coaching is dedicated to addressing the increasing burden of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity. We invite you to take proactive measures toward a healthier future, where our personalized coaching empowers you to achieve optimal well-being.



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